G.S. Paper -2

Topic: Polity

1. EVM hackathon from June 3

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/evm-hackathon-from-june-

3/article18517991.ece

Context:

EVM’s tampering issue.

In news:

The Election Commission invited recognised political parties to an “Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) Challenge” beginning June 3.

EC challenging the parties to demonstrate tampering EVM.

Only Indian experts are allowed to participate in the event.

The challenge will be open for four to five days, for the political parties that

participated in the Assembly elections in Goa, Punjab, Manipur, Uttarakhand

and Uttar Pradesh.

An independent team of experts will supervise the proceedings, which will be

video-recorded.

Experts will be allowed to open and inspect the machine, they will not be

allowed to tweak its components.

Procedure:

Political parties can nominate three experts

Each party will be assigned four EVMs of their choice, picked up from EC

warehouses in any Assembly constituency.

2. Indian EVMs far superior: EC

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/indian-evms-far-superior-

ec/article18516933.ece

Context:

EVM tampering issue.

In news:

Election Commission reiterated that the device being a standalone machine

could not be hacked and that it was far superior to those manufactured abroad.

EVM’s are foolproof:

EVM’s do not have any frequency receiver or data decoder for wireless

signalling.

Manipulation at the manufacturing stage is ruled out due to very stringent

security protocol on software security.

The results cannot be altered even by activating any malicious software as the

chip used is only one-time programmable.

The control unit activates the ballot unit for only one key press at a time; any

additional key pressed is not sensed and this makes it impossible to send

signals by pressing a sequence of keys or secret codes.

The new model introduced in 2013 has additional features like tamper detection

and self diagnostics, which checks if any changes have been made.

Key facts:

Indian manufacturers have supplied EVMs to Namibia, Nepal and

Bhutan.

Countries like Australia, Russia, Afghanistan, Nigeria and Bulgaria, have

also shown interest in the product

It is manufactured by two public sector undertakings, Bharat Electronic

Limited and Electronics Corporation of India.

G.S. Paper -3

Topic: Internal Security and Defence

1. Private firms eye key defence role

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/private-firms-eye-key-defence-

role/article18517476.ece

In news:

Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Arun Jaitley approved

the “broad contours of a policy aimed at engaging the private sector in the manufacture of high-tech defence equipment in India,”

DAC has approved four platforms in which the private sector will play a key role

in the first stage: fighter aircraft, submarines, armoured vehicles and

helicopters.

Objectives of policy:

The policy is aimed at developing the defence industrial eco-system in

the country via the involvement of both the major Indian corporates as

well as the MSME sector.

The policy aims to establishment of “long-term strategic partnerships

with qualified Indian industry majors through a transparent and

competitive process wherein the Indian industry partners would tie up

with global OEMs (original equipment manufacturer) to see technology

transfers and manufacturing know-how to set up domestic

manufacturing infrastructure and supply chains”

Policy will contribute to the building of self-reliance in the vital sector of

national security requirements.

Defense acquisition Council:

The Government has set up a Defence Acquisition Council headed by the

Raksha Mantri for decision making in regard to the totality of the new planning

process.

Which inter-alia involves according ‘in principle’ approval of Capital Acquisitions in the long term perspective plan and for each Capital Acquisition

programme.

The decision flowing from the Defence Acquisition Council are to be

implemented by the following 3 Boards –

Defence Procurement Board headed by the Defence Secretary

Defence Production Board headed by the Secretary (Defence Production)

Defence Research & Development Board headed by the Secretary

(Defence Research & Development)

Topic: Disaster management

2. India taking part in global disaster risk reduction meet in Mexico

http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/india-taking-part-in-

global-disaster-risk-reduction-meet-in-mexico-117052000449_1.html

In news:

India is participating in a five-day long Global Platform for Disaster Risk

Reduction (GPDRR) summit being held in Mexico.

The summit will mark the first opportunity since 2015 to review global progress

in the implementation of SFDRR

It will also provide a platform for all stakeholders to galvanise their efforts in

sustainable development and climate change adaptation, sharing of

experiences, discussing innovative solutions, and charting out the course for an

integrated approach at the international, regional, national and local levels.

About GPDRR:

The GPDRR is a global forum for strategic advice, coordination, partnership

development and review of progress in the implementation of the Sendai

Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) 2015-2030 which was

adopted at the 3rd UN World conference on disaster risk reduction held in

March 2015 in Sendai, Japan.

Topic: Science and technology

3. Moon orbiting solar system’s third largest dwarf planet found

http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/moon-orbiting-solar-systems-third-

largest-dwarf-planet-found/article18509011.ece

In news:

Scientists have discovered a new moon orbiting the third largest dwarf planet,

that resides in the frigid outskirts in our solar system.

Key Findings: most of the known dwarf planets in the Kuiper Belt larger than

965 kilometres across have companions.

These bodies can provide some insight into how moons formed in the young

solar system.

Basic information

The Kuiper Belt: The Kuiper Belt is a disc-shaped region of icy bodies -

including dwarf planets such as Pluto - and comets beyond the orbit of

Neptune. It extends from about 30 to 55 AU and is probably populated with

hundreds of thousands of icy bodies larger than 100 km (62 miles) across and

an estimated trillion or more comets. The first Kuiper Belt Object was

discovered in 1992.

Dwarf planet:

A dwarf planet is a planetary-mass object that is neither a planet nor a

natural satellite. That is, it is in direct orbit of the Sun, and is massive

enough for its gravity to crush it into a hydrostatic equilibrium shape

(usually a spheroid), but has not cleared the neighborhood of other

material around its orbit.

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) currently recognizes five

dwarf planets: Ceres; Pluto; Haumea; Makemake; and Eris.

Prelims worthy factual information:

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani has won a second term in office.

India - 122nd spot in the World Happiness Report for 2017, brought out by the

United Nations. Down five points from the 2016 survey,

Practice Questions:

1. Indian manufacturers have supplied EVMs

A. Sri Lanka

B. Myanmar

C. Bangladesh

D. Bhutan

Correct answer: D

Type: Current affairs

Level: moderate

Explanation: Indian manufacturers have supplied EVMs to Namibia,

Nepal and Bhutan.

2. Electronic Voting Machine is manufactured in India by

A. BEL only

B. Electronics Corporation of India only.

C. Both BEL and Electronic Corporation of India

D. None of the above

Correct answer: C

Type: Current Affair

Level: Easy

Explanation:

EVM is manufactured by two public sector undertakings, Bharat

Electronic Limited and Electronics Corporation of India.

3. Consider the following statements

1. Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction summit is being held at

Mexico.

2. Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction is global forum for reviewing

of progress in the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster

Risk Reduction.

Choose the correct option

A. Only 1

B. Only 2

C. Both 1 and 2

D. Neither 1 nor 2

Correct option: C

Type: Current Affair

Level: moderate

Explanation:

India taking part in global disaster risk reduction meet in

Mexico

The GPDRR is a global forum for strategic advice, coordination,

partnership development and review of progress in the

implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk

Reduction (SFDRR) 2015-2030 which was adopted at the 3rd

UN World conference on disaster risk reduction held in March

2015 in Sendai, Japan.

4. The defence acquisition council is headed by

A. National Security Adviser

B. Prime Minister

C. President of India

D. Defence Minister

Correct Answer: D

Type: Current Affair

Level: Moderate

Explanation: The Government has set up a Defence Acquisition

Council headed by the Raksha Mantri (Defense minister)for decision

making in regard to the totality of the new planning process.

5. Which among the following is/ are dwarf planets?

1. Ceres

2. Pluto

3. Makemake

4. Eris

5. Haumea

Correct option:

A. 1,3,4,5

B. 1,2,3,4

C. 1,4,5

D. All are correct

Correct answer: D

Type: G.K

Level: Easy

Explanation: The International Astronomical Union (IAU) currently

recognizes five dwarf planets: Ceres; Pluto; Haumea; Makemake;

and Eris.

GS Paper 2

Topic : Polity

The coal block allocation case may become a benchmark for other

ongoing prosecutions

http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/coal-

comeuppance/article18520066.ece

Key Points :

It is seemingly the consistent result of the 2014 Supreme Court

arrange proclaiming all coal piece distributions made since 1993

illicit and subjective.

The conviction of three Coal Ministry authorities, including

previous Secretary H.C. Gupta, marks the main case in which

singular criminal obligation has been settled on open workers in

the coal square trick.

Two past trials had finished in feelings, however those held

blameworthy were authorities of privately owned businesses who

had hoodwinked the specialists into dispensing them squares.

Mr. Gupta was the director of the screening panel that suggested

allotments. It worked for a considerable length of time without

respect for rules, standards or straightforwardness, until the peak

court ended its unpredictable run. He and two other open hirelings

have been discovered liable of mishandling their positions to obtain

a coal obstruct for Kamal Sponge Steel and Power Limited.

The decision is an examined arraignment of government

procedures, or the absence of procedures, amid the period.

Regardless of whether there was a scheme between the authorities

and the organization and whether the indictment demonstrated

that these oversights added up to consider mishandle of their

positions will be matters that will, most likely, be taken up on

request; yet the hugeness of the decision is that it might turn into a

benchmark for other continuous arraignments on comparable

lines.

The case additionally brings up issues about the part and

obligation of a Secretary to the administration, who is the

authoritative leader of a division as well as a counselor to the

Minister on matters of approach.

2. Defence deals await private firms

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/defence-deals-

await-private-firms/article18521230.ece

Key Points :

The Union government will unveil mega defence deals estimated at

over Rs. 1.5 lakh crore involving the private sector under the

strategic partnership model to build a domestic defence

manufacturing base in key areas such as submarines and fighter

aircraft.

The new model, which is a chapter under the Defence Procurement

Procedure, has four segments —submarines, single-engine fighter

aircraft, helicopters and armoured carriers/main battle tanks —

and specifically intends to open up defence manufacturing to the

private sector.

Topic : International Relations

1. Bid to boost India, Africa trade ties

http://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/bid-to-boost-india-africa-

trade-ties/article18519609.ece

Key Points :

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley will discuss potential areas of

boosting cooperation between India and Africa here on Monday.

Mr. Jaitley will open the India-Africa Cooperation session being

held in conjunction with the annual meeting of the African

Development Bank (AfDB).

The sessions will cover areas such as trade and investment,

agriculture, renewable energy and manufacturing among others.

Total trade between India and Africa increased almost fivefold

between 2005-06 and 2015-16, and stood at $52 billion in March

2016-17.

This is the first time that the African Development Bank is holding

its annual meeting outside of the African continent.

GS Paper 3

Topic : Economy

1. Urjit to brief MPs’ panel on note ban only in June Framing of monetary policy to hold up RBI Governor

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/urjit-to-brief-mps-panel-on-

note-ban-only-in-june/article18519970.ece

Key Points :

RBI Governor Urjit Patel will appear before a parliamentary panel

for a second briefing on demonetisation on June 8, and not on May

25 as scheduled, as work on framing the monetary policy will be

under way at that time.

The Standing Committee on Finance, which had questioned Mr.

Patel on January 18 on the move to ban notes of Rs. 500 and

Rs.1,000 denominations, allowed him to appear at a later date after

he made a request expressing his inability.

2. ‘Centre has plan to make AI a great global airline’ http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-business/centre-has-plan-

to-make-ai-a-great-global-airline/article18521147.ece

Key Points :

The Central government has a ‘winning’ strategy for its ailing national carrier Air India which is to turn it into a “great” global airline.

NITI roadmap

The Center as of late requested that NITI Aayog detail a guide for

Air India's future as the legislature is rethinking its procedure on

future value imbuement into the national transporter. As a feature

of the turnaround arrange, the Center has mixed Rs. 24,745 crore

as value into Air India, as toward the finish of 2016-17.

He said that the Center needed to guarantee that the present

obligation weight of the carrier, which is a "devastating burden" on

its execution, is diminished.

Air India's obligation remained at Rs.50,357 crore toward the finish

of 2015-16.

Topic : Environment – Renewable energy

1. Green energy target tough, say officials Rooftop solar programme

making poor progress as it is not cost-effective

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/green-energy-target-tough-

say-officials/article18520334.ece

Key Points :

The legislature is probably not going to meet its greatly advanced

focus of 175 GW of sustainable power source by 2022 because of

the poor advance of the rooftop solar based program.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is additionally

considering expanding the commitment of different sources like

biogas and small hydro to compensate for any shortfall.

The administration had declared an objective of 40 GW of rooftop

solar oriented by 2022, however had accomplished just around 1.3

GW as of December 2016, which is somewhat more than 3% of the

objective.

A few issues

The arrangement issue is that the levy structure at this moment is

with the end goal that it is recently not gainful for individuals to set

up rooftop solar based. The cost of doing as such is higher than the

cash they remain to make.

The other issue is the utilization that individuals put their rooftops

to.

Most rooftops in India are level, and individuals locate a few option

utilizes for these, for example, drying garments, and

notwithstanding facilitating gatherings or suppers. There are parts

of India where individuals even consider their rooftops. So they

would prefer not to cover that entire space with solar rooftops.

Challenges :

The difficulties for rooftop solar based are distinctive. The first is

that we don't have budgetary foundations amassing request over an

on a very basic level divergent arrangement of undertakings.

The second issue was the de-gambling of interest in the housetop

space. While this has been accomplished for business solar

powered tasks, it has not been accomplished for rooftop solar

based.

The third issue is that there is no administrative lucidity on

ensured installment by utilities on the net metering premise.

Topic : Science and technology

1. Google woos start-ups to heat up its cloud Offers technology that

combines a large amount of storage and computing to ventures that

study Earth and simulate cities

http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/google-woos-start-ups-to-

heat-up-its-cloud/article18519766.ece

Key Points :

Google is wooing a portion of the world's most sweltering new companies

to offer its distributed computing innovation.

These incorporate endeavors that send satellites into the space to

concentrate the evolving earth, firms that change over conventional

assembling plants into shrewd industrial facilities and new

companies that are reproducing whole urban areas.

Google is putting forth cloud innovation that consolidates a lot of

capacity and processing. It then pitches it to clients who might

need to upgrade or set up new server farms.

Planet Labs, Inc, a start-up which is set for picture the whole Earth

each day, and roll out the worldwide improvement unmistakable,

said that it has changed to Google Cloud to host its symbolism and

do information preparing.

Practice questions :

1. What is the target of solar rooftop energy from renewable electicity

target set by MNRE by 2022 ?

a) 5 GW

b) 20 GW

c) 40 GW

d) 100 GW

Answer : C

Topic : Renewable energy

Type : Factual

Level : Medium

MNRE renewable electricity targets have been upscaled to grow from just

under 43 GW in April 2016 to 175 GW by the year 2022, including 100

GW from solar power, 60 GW from wind power, 10 GW from bio power

and 5 GW from small hydro power.

The 100 GW has been split into 40 GW and 60 GW for solar rooftop

panels and grid connected solar power plants(Solar PV and solar

thermal).

2. Defence Acquisition Council is headed by which of the following

minister ?

a) Prime Minister

b) Home Minister

c) Defense Minister

d) Finance Minister

Answer : C

Topic : Polity

Type : Factual

Level : Medium

The Defence Acquisition Council recently discussed the much-awaited

'strategic partnership model' under which select private firms would

manufacture fighter jets, helicopters and submarines in India in

partnership with foreign companies.

3. With reference to African Development Bank Group (AfDB), consider

the statements.

1. The AfDB promotes the investment of public capital onlyl in projects

and programs that are likely to contribute to the economic and social

development of the region.

2. It comprises of three entities : The African Development Bank, the

African Development Fund and the Nigeria Trust Fund.

Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

a) 1 only

b) 2 only

c) Both 1 and 2

d) none

Answer : B

Topic : IR

Type : Factual

Level : Medium

The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) or Banque Africaine de

Developpment (BAD) is a multilateral development finance institution

established by Laston M. to contribute to the economic development and

social progress of African countries. The AfDB was founded in 1964 and

comprises three entities: The African Development Bank, the African

Development Fund and the Nigeria Trust Fund. The AfDB’s mission is to fight poverty and improve living conditions on the continent through

promoting the investment of public and private capital in projects and

programs that are likely to contribute to the economic and social

development of the region. The AfDB is a financial provider to African

governments and private companies investing in the regional member

countries (RMC).

4. Consider the statements :

1. International Solar Alliance includes all the members of United

Nations.

2. It was launched during Paris summit.

Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

a) 1 only

b) 2 only

c) Both 1 and 2

d) None

Answer : C

Topic : Environment

Type : Factual

Level : Medium

On the first day of the COP-21 summit, the International Solar Alliance

was launched by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French

President Francois Hollande as a union of countries with abundant

sunlight. Under this alliance, 121 countries that fall within the tropics

{i.e. between Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn} have been invited

to make collaborative efforts to harness solar energy to generate the

electricity. Most of these countries fall within Asia, Africa and South

America.There are three objectives behind the International Solar

Alliance. First is to force down prices by driving demand; second is to

bring standardization in solar technologies and third is to foster research

and development.

5. Consider the following statements :

1. Urjit Patel panel report has recommended for setting up of monetary

policy committee.

2. Monetary Policy Committee is an executive body of 6 members of

which, three members are from RBI while three other members are

nominated by the Central Government.

Which of the above statements is/are correct ?

a) 1 only

b) 2 only

c) Both 1 and 2

d) None

Answer : C

Topic : Economy

Type : Factual

Level : Medium

Recommendations for MPC Strong recommendations to set monetary

policy committee in India had come from Urjit Patel panel report.

Setting up of MPC The Monetary Policy Committee was set up in 2015

after amending the RBI Act. Before that, Government and RBI made an

agreement via which Government tasked RBI with the responsibility for

price stability and inflation targeting. In context, a Monetary Policy

Framework Agreement was signed on February 20, 2015.

Composition of MPC Monetary Policy Committee is an executive body of 6

members. Of these, three members are from RBI while three other

members are nominated by the Central Government. Each member has

one vote. In case of a tie, the RBI governor has casting vote to break the

tie. MPC is required to meet for two days before deciding on rates.

Further, it is needed to meet at least four times a year and make public

its decisions following each meeting.

G.S.Paper-1

Topic: Social Issues

1. Muslim law board files affidavit in SC, says 'triple talaq undesirable

practice, will issue advisory against it'

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/muslim-law-board-files-

affidavit-in-sc-says-triple-talaq-an-undesirable-practice-will-issue-advisory-

against-it/articleshow/58789483.cms

Context: instant triple talaq and dignity of women issue.

In news:

All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) resolution: Muslims who

resort to instant triple talaq will be socially boycotted by other Muslims.

New code of conduct:

Lays emphasis on a layered settlement of disputes between

husband and wife through mutual interaction.

If the issue is not resolved mutually, then the elder members of

both families will intervene.

If this too does not work, divorce is resorted to as a final option.

G.S.Paper-2

Topic: Polity

Topic: Bilateral relations

2. No room yet for India in NSG, says China

http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/no-room-for-india-yet-in-

nsg-says-china/article18523724.ece

In news:

China to oppose India’s unilateral entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group

(NSG).

Nuclear weapon states that have not signed the Nuclear Non-proliferation

Treaty (NPT) are barred from entering NSG.

Bern, Switzerland- plenary session of NSG will be held next month.

India has underscored that NPT membership is not essential for joining

the NSG, as was illustrated in the case with France, which became a

member of the NSG without signing the NPT.

Basic Information:

Nuclear Suppliers Group:

The NSG controls the global exports of nuclear technology and

material to ensure that atomic energy is used only for peaceful

purposes.

The NSG was founded in response to the Indian nuclear test in

May 1974 and first met in November 1975.

The test demonstrated that certain non-weapons specific nuclear

technology could be readily turned to weapons development.

Nations already signatories of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty

(NPT) saw the need to further limit the export of nuclear

equipment, materials or technology.

G.S.Paper-3

Topic: Economy

3. Modi launches new projects in Kutch, Gujarat

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/modi-lays-foundation-stone-for-

rs-993-cr-projects-of-kandla-port/article18524917.ece

In news:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched new projects at Kandla Port

Trust.

To boost India’s international trade, Kandla Port will soon be connected with Chabahar port in Iran, which is being developed with India’s participation.

Knadla port to be renamed as Deendayal Port Trust to as part of Pt

Deendayal Upadhyay’s centenary celebrations. P.M. said development multi-modal transport system is a must to

connect ports with railway networks for seamless movements of cargo.

Key fact: Kandla Port Trust is the largest cargo handling port in the

country

4. Pradhan seeks discount on oil

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/pradhan-seeks-

discount-on-oil/article18526984.ece

In news:

Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged the Organization of the

Petroleum Exporting Countries to remove the ‘Asian premium’ on the

crude oil supplied to Indian and Asian buyers, and said there should

instead be an ‘Asian dividend.’ Key facts:

India imports large volume of crude oil.

India makes timely payments and has honoured all its contractual

commitments.

OPEC has subsidised western buyers at the cost of Asian buyers.

Asian market is important for OPEC, particularly the fast-growing

Indian market which stood by OPEC as a reliable and continued

customer there should be an Asian dividend rather than an Asian

premium.

Basic Information:

Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries:

OPEC, is an intergovernmental organization of 13 nations as of

2017, founded in 1960 in Baghdad by the first five members (Iran,

Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Venezuela), and headquartered since

1965 in Vienna.

As of 2015, the 13 countries accounted for an estimated 42

percent of global oil production and 73 percent of the world's

"proven" oil reserves, giving OPEC a major influence on global oil

prices that were previously determined by American-dominated

multinational oil companies.

OPEC's stated mission is "to coordinate and unify the petroleum

policies of its member countries and ensure the stabilization of oil

markets, in order to secure an efficient, economic and regular

supply of petroleum to consumers, a steady income to producers,

and a fair return on capital for those investing in the petroleum

industry."

The organization is also a significant provider of information about

the international oil market.

Members: As of January 2017, OPEC's members are Algeria,

Angola, Ecuador, Gabon, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Qatar,

Saudi Arabia (the de facto leader), United Arab Emirates, and

Venezuela, while Indonesia is a former member.

5. World's smallest nation ratifies Solar Alliance Pact

http://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/worlds-smallest-nation-

ratifies-solar-alliance-pact/article18524199.ece

In news:

The world’s smallest republic, the tiny island nation of Nauru — has

become the sixth country to ratify the International Solar Alliance (ISA)

Framework pact initiated by the Indian and French governments at the

climate change summit held at Paris in 2015.

Five more African nations — Comoros, Cote d’Ivoire, Somalia, Ghana and Djibouti — have committed to sign the Solar Alliance pact during the

ongoing meeting of the African Development bank in India.

Headquartered in India, the alliance conceived as a coalition of solar

resource rich countries to collaborate on meeting their energy needs

through a common, agreed approach, will become a legal entity once at

least 15 countries ratify and deposit the framework agreement.

India has earmarked about $2 billion to finance solar projects in Africa

out of it commitment to provide $10 billion of concessional lines of credit

for projects in the continent.

Topic: Security

6. Army set to get 11 attack helicopters

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/army-set-to-get-11-attack-

helicopters/article18525304.ece

In news:

Apache multi-role attack helicopters: The Boeing AH-

64 Apache American four-blade, twin-turboshaft attack

helicopter and is the most advanced multi-role heavy

attack helicopter in the world.

Deal with U.S.: Under a $3-billion deal, India has

contracted 22 Apache attack helicopters and 15 Chinook

heavy-lift helicopters through the Foreign Military Sales program.

Presently, India operates a mix of Russian Mi-25 and Mi-35 attack

helicopters which are with the IAF.

The Army has placed a firm order for 114 indigenously developed Light

Combat Helicopters (LCH), which is in an advanced stage of induction, and

has also ordered Rudra helicopters, the weaponised

variant of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH).

Prelims worthy factual information

Canola :

Canola is the international trade name for

mustard carrying lower levels of erucic

acid — less than 2% —in oil and is

considered as one of the healthiest

options.

Mustard farming is far more labour intensive, especially for

weeding during harvest.

Cobra lily :

Arisaema translucens , very rare species.

Recently rediscovered in the western Nilgiris after

84 years.

The Toda tribals of the Nilgiris, who know the plant well, have an

embroidery motif known as the podwarshk, which resembles it

Cobra lilies are at greater risk of extinction from the commercial

trade in exotic plants.

Arisaema translucens could be considered ‘critically endangered’.

The Battle of Imphal :

The Battle of Imphal took place in the region around the city of

Imphal, the capital of the state of Manipur in northeast India from

March until July 1944.

Japanese armies attempted to destroy the Allied forces at Imphal

and invade India, but were driven back into Burma with heavy

losses. T

ogether with the simultaneous Battle of Kohima on the road by

which the encircled Allied forces at Imphal were relieved, the battle

was the turning point of the Burma Campaign, part of the South-

East Asian Theatre of the Second World War.

The defeat at Kohima and Imphal was the largest defeat to that

date in Japanese history.

Practice question:

1. The science concerned with vegetable culture is called as…. A. Floriculture

B. Olericulture

C. Horticulture

D. Agriculture

Correct Answer:B

Type: G.K

Level: moderate

Explanation: Olericulture is the production of plants for use of the

edible parts

2. Yellow revolution is concerned with

A. Leather and cocoa

B. Oil production

C. Petroleum production

D. Fertilizers

Correct Answer: B

Type: G.K

Level: moderate

Explanation:

3. Consider the following statement

1. Dragon’s Breath is the world’s hottest chilli pepper. 2. oil from the chilli can be used as an anaesthetic

Choose the correct answer

A. Only 1

B. Only 2

C. Both 1 and 2

D. Neither 1 nor 2

Correct Answer: C

Type: G.K

Level: moderate

Explanation: The world’s hottest chilli pepper, grown by Welsh

farmer Mike Smith, has been named Dragon’s Breath. Researchers say the oil from the chilli is so potent that it could act as an

alternative anaesthetic for those allergic to conventional drugs. The

peppers measure 2.48 million on the Scoville heat scale.

4. Consider the following statement

1. Cobra lily is found in western Nilgiris

2. Toda tribals of the Nilgiris, have an embroidery motif known as the

podwarshk, which resembles Cobra lily

Choose the correct answer

A. Only 1

B. Only 2

C. Both 1 and 2

D. Neither 1 nor 2

Correct Answer: C

Type: G.K

Level: moderate

Explanation:

Cobra lily :

Arisaema translucens , very rare species.

Recently rediscovered in the western Nilgiris after

84 years.

The Toda tribals of the Nilgiris, who know the

plant well, have an embroidery motif known as

the podwarshk, which resembles it

Cobra lilies are at greater risk of extinction from

the commercial trade in exotic plants.

G.S. Paper -2

Topic: Polity

The Three Year Agenda

http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/the-three-year-agenda-niti-

aayog-national-development-council-indian-economy-sdg-gdp-4664411/

Context:

The draft “Three Year Action Agenda” of the NITI Aayog has been circulated recently to its governing council

This draft will be finalised after considering suggestions from the State

Governments

Five-Year Plan

After(Union Government) allowing for the 12th five-year plan to phase itself out,

the transition is now complete

Five-year plans are reminiscent of centrally planned economies; most such

countries, like the Soviet Union, China and Romania, had similar planning

horizons

Other documents:

The seven-year policy strategy

The 15-year long-term vision

Objective of Three Year Action Agenda:

It seeks to embark on “a path to achieve all-round development of India and its

people” through concerted action.

What are the advantages of a three-year timeline?

Electoral cycles do not synchronise with (earlier)five-year plans; quite often, this

entailed outcome accountability to rest with a successor government.

But a “Three Year Action Agenda” makes the government in office more directly accountable for the implementation of its plans

Augmenting the “Three Year Action Agenda” with a seven-year implementable

policy strategy and a 15-year vision enables us to look into the future,

particularly at evolving technology, demography and ecology, and accordingly

align our policies

The 15-year vision is also somewhat coterminous with the Sustainable

Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations (UN). The new format thus

combines domestic aspiration with global aims.

Topic: Health Issues

Rajasthan: 600 more health centres to be converted into model units

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/600-phcs-to-be-converted-into-

model-centres/articleshow/58795259.cms

In news:

Six hundred more Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in Rajasthan will shortly be

converted into model units

Model units:

Doctors and para-medical staff at the PHCs will take special care to

maintain health and nutritional status of women, children and old age

patients.

Additional services provided: allopathy and Ayurveda physicians

available to patients.

They are functioning as “wellness centres” with a significant increase in patient registration and institutional deliveries.

Model PHCs would provide free medicines and conduct as many as 15

diagnostic tests free of cost.

NGO evolves blueprint to end female genital mutilation

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/ngo-evolves-blueprint-to-end-

female-genital-mutilation/article18553102.ece

In news:

Practice of female genital mutilation (FGM)

report compiled by Speak Out on FGM,a group

of Dawoodi Bohra woman ( victims of FGM)

along with a human rights NGO, Lawyers

Collective.

Report speaks about psychological trauma and

physical scars faced by the victims, and the

legal aspects that could be weaved in to stop

the practice completely.

Practice: Khatna, as practised among Dawoodi

Bohras, involves cutting the part of the clitoral

hood or the prepuce, of girls as young as seven

years.

While a large number of countries have banned

the practice, India does not have a law on the

same.

G.S. Paper -3

Topic: Science and Technology

Australian scientists create world’s thinnest hologram

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/australian-scientists-

create-worlds-thinnest-hologram/article18512291.ece

In News:

Scientists have created the world’s thinnest hologram that can be seen without 3D goggles and may be integrated into everyday electronics such as

smartphones, computers and TVs

It is simple to make and is 1,000 times thinner than a human hair

Integrating holography into everyday electronics would make screen size

irrelevant

A pop-up 3D hologram can display a wealth of data that does not neatly fit on a

phone or watch

Ecological concerns over combustible ice

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/ecological-concerns-over-

combustible-ice/article18512280.ece

Context:

Japan and China

successfully extracted the

material from the sea floor

off their coastlines

Commercial development of

the globe’s huge reserves of a frozen fossil fuel known as

“combustible ice” has moved closer to reality

The fuel was successfully

mined by a drilling rig

operating in the South China

Sea

What is combustible ice?

Combustible ice is a frozen

mixture of water and

concentrated natural gas

Technically known as methane hydrate, it can be lit on fire in its frozen state

It is believed to comprise one of the world’s most abundant fossil fuels

Issues:

Experts suggest large-scale production remains many years away

If extraction is not done properly, it could flood the atmosphere with climate-

changing greenhouse gases

Advantages of methane hydrate:

For Japan, methane hydrate offers the chance to reduce its heavy reliance of

imported fuels if it can tap into reserves off its coastline

In China, it could serve as a cleaner substitute for coal-burning power plants

and steel factories

These factories have polluted much of the country with lung-damaging smog

Location of methane hydrate:

Methane hydrate has been found beneath seafloors and buried inside Arctic

permafrost and beneath Antarctic ice

It is present in abundance in the world

This means methane hydrate reserves could meet global gas demands for 80 to

800 years at current consumption rates

Environmental concerns:

If methane hydrate leaks during the extraction process, it can increase

greenhouse gas emissions

The fuel also could displace renewables such as solar and wind power.

Schemes /Acts in news

VAJRA (Visiting Advanced Joint Research) Faculty scheme

Implementing agency: The Science and Engineering Research Board

(SERB), a Statutory body Department of Science and Technology.

Enables NRIs and overseas scientific community to participate and

contribute to research and development in India.

VAJRA faculty will undertake research in S&T priority areas of nation

wherein the capability and capacity are needed to be developed. The

VAJRA faculty will engage in collaborative research in public funded

institutions.

The residency period of the VAJRA Faculty in India would be for a

minimum of 1 month and a maximum of 3 months a year.

The VAJRA Faculty is provided a lump-sum amount of US$ 15000 in the

first month of residency in a year and US$ 10000 p.m. in the other two

months to cover their travel and honorarium. While no separate support

is provided for e.g. accommodation, medical / personal insurance etc.

the host institute may consider providing additional support.

Public funded academic institutions and national laboratories are eligible

to host the VAJRA Faculty. These institutions should appoint them as

Adjunct / Visiting Faculty and involve them in co-guiding and

mentoring of students and developing collaborative programs. The

Faculty can also be allowed to participate in other academic activities as

agreed to by the host institution and the Faculty.

Prelims worthy factual information

Hyperloop

Hyperloop is a proposed mode of

passenger and freight transportation

that would propel a pod-like vehicle

through a reduced-pressure tube that

would exceed airliner speed.

The pods would accelerate to cruising

speed gradually using a linear

electric motor and glide above their

track using passive magnetic

levitation or air bearings.

The tubes could also go above ground on columns or underground,

eliminating the dangers of grade crossings. It is hoped that the system

will be highly energy-efficient, quiet and autonomous.

Practice question:

1. Combustible ice consists of which gas?

A. Methane hydrate

B. Methyl hydrate

C. Methyl hydride

D. Methane hydride

Correct answer: A

Type: Science

Level: moderate

Explanation:

Combustible ice is a frozen mixture of water and concentrated natural gas

Technically known as methane hydrate, it can be lit on fire in its frozen state

It is believed to comprise one of the world’s most abundant fossil fuels

2. VAJRA (Visiting Advanced Joint Research) Faculty scheme is being

implemented by which agency?

A. The Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB)

B. Council of Scientific & Industrial Research

C. Indian Institute of Science

D. None of the above

Correct answer: A

Type: Schemes

Level: moderate

Explanation:

VAJRA (Visiting Advanced Joint Research) Faculty scheme

Implementing agency: The Science and Engineering Research Board

(SERB), a Statutory body Department of Science and Technology.

3. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana is implemented by

A. Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation.

B. Ministry of Rural Development

C. Ministry of Panchayath Raj Insitution

D. None of the above

Correct Answer: B Type: Schemes Level: Moderate Explanation:

Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana will be

implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development.

National Environmental Engineering Research Institute falls under

A. Ministry of Environment and Forest

B. Ministry of Science and Technology

C. Ministry of Human Resource and Development

D. None of the above

Correct Answer: B

Topic: Current Affair

Level: Moderate

Explanation:

NEERI falls under the Ministry of Science and Technology (India) of

central government.

G.S. Paper -2

Topic: Polity

Fresh move to impeach Justice Nagarjuna Reddy

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/fresh-move-to-impeach-justice-

nagarjuna-reddy/article18572985.ece

In news:

Impeachment proceedings have been initiated against Justice C.V. Nagarjuna

Reddy of the High Court for Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

60 members of the Rajya Sabha have submitted a motion seeking initiation of

impeachment proceedings.

Second attempt to impeach Justice Nagarjuna Reddy.

Allegations against Justice:

Interfering in the judicial process.

Caste slurs including death threats against a Dalit Junior Civil Judge

Sanku Rama Krishna at the courts in Rayachoti, a town in Andhra

Pradesh’s Kadapa district

Procedure :

Vice President to constitute a three-member committee under the 1968 Judges

(Inquiry) Act, which generally consists of a sitting Supreme Court judge and

two High Court Chief Justices.

This is done in consultation with the CJI.

The Committee will function like a trial court, examining the accusations

against Justice Reddy and ruling whether they are well-founded. Thereafter it

will advise in favour, or against the judge’s removal. The Committee’s decision will then be placed in both houses of Parliament for a

vote, and would require a two-third majority of MPs present voting in favour

of the motion in the same session, or an absolute majority of a joint session,

for the judge to be removed.

Article 124 (4) of the Constitution stipulates that a minimum of 50 Rajya

Sabha MPs or double that number from the Lok Sabha are required as

signatories to initiate impeachment, the only means to remove judges from

office in the country’s higher judiciary.

Topic: World Affairs

An Abe-Modi plan for Africa

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/abe-modi-plan-

unveiled/article18572502.ece

In news:

The Indian and Japanese governments unveiled a vision document for the Asia

Africa Growth Corridor, proposed by the two countries’ Prime Ministers last November, and more details are likely to be firmed up by September in time for

Japan PM Shinzo Abe’s visit to New Delhi. Unlike China’s One Belt One Road (OBOR) project, about which India has

raised several concerns, the Asia Africa Growth Corridor is conceived as a

more open and inclusive programme that will be based on more consultations

and keep people as the centre piece rather than just trade and economic ties.

Four key elements:

a) Enhancing capacity and skills;

b) Building quality infrastructure and connecting institutions;

c) Development and cooperation projects in health, farming,

manufacturing and disaster management; and

d) People-to-people partnerships.

Greater cooperation between Indian and Japanese firms in furthering Africa’s development and Indian investors to participate in the new economic zone

coming up around Kenya’s Mombasa port with Japan’s assistance.

U.S. proposes cut in aid to Pak.

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-international/us-proposes-cut-in-aid-

to-pak/article18573901.ece

In news:

Pakistan will be among several countries that will be affected if cuts in military

aid to partners proposed by the White House is passed by Congress.

The Trump administration has proposed that the military aid to Pakistan in

2018 be reduced to $100 million from $265 million in 2017.

The $100 million under foreign military funding is to help Pakistan buy military

hardware.

With other programmes added, total assistance proposed for Pakistan next year

amounts to $344 million, which is also a substantial reduction.

The reduction could affect Pakistan’s army, navy and air force and diminish its ability to patrol the maritime border.

May dent war on terror:

The proposed cuts could impact Pakistan’s ability to fight terrorist organisations in the region

Conversion to loans:

The Trump administration has also proposed that the military grants may

be converted to loans wherever appropriate.

The proposed system will require partner countries to buy American

weaponry with the loans before paying the money back to America.

If implemented, the new system could drive many countries to America’s rivals such as China and Russia for military hardware and the State

Department bureaucracy is opposed to it.

G.S. Paper -3

Topic: Economics

Centre may expand UDAN’s wingspan

http://www.thehindu.com/business/centre-may-expand-udans-

wingspan/article18572678.ece

In news:

The Centre has proposed widening the scope of its UDAN scheme for regional

connectivity by making more flight operations eligible for a host of concessions,

including viability gap funding.

All routes which do not have flight services at present may become part of the

Scheme.

Cabinet nod for phasing out FIPB

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/policy/cabinet-approves-fipb-

abolition-sources/article9711636.ece

The union Cabinet approved phasing out of the 25year old Foreign Investment

Promotion Board (FIPB)

The decision is aimed at making India more attractive for FDI by improving ease

of doing business and promoting the “Maximum Governance, Minimum Government” principle.

Articles in news:

Article 124: Establishment and Constitution of Supreme Court

(1) There shall be a Supreme Court of India consisting of a Chief Justice of India and,

until Parliament by law prescribes a larger number, of not more than seven other

Judges.

(2) Every Judge of the Supreme Court shall be appointed by the President by warrant

under his hand and seal after consultation with such of the Judges of the Supreme

Court and of the High Courts in the States as the President may deem necessary for

the purpose and shall hold office until he attains the age of sixty-five years:

Provided that in the case of appointment of a Judge other than the Chief Justice, the

Chief Justice of India shall always be consulted:

Provided further that—

(a) a Judge may, by writing under his hand addressed to the President, resign his

office;

(b) a Judge may be removed from his office in the manner provided in clause (4).

1[(2A) The age of a Judge of the Supreme Court shall be determined by such authority

and in such manner as Parliament may by law provide.]

(3) A person shall not be qualified for appointment as a Judge of the Supreme Court

unless he is a citizen of India and—

(a) has been for at least five years a Judge of a High Court or of two or more such

Courts in succession; or

(b) has been for at least ten years an advocate of a High Court or of two or more such

Courts in succession; or

(c) is, in the opinion of the President, a distinguished jurist.

Explanation I: In this clause "High Court means a High Court which exercises, or

which at any time before the commencement of this Constitution exercised,

jurisdiction in any part of the territory of India.

Explanation II: In computing for the purpose of this clause the period during which a

person has been an advocate, any period during which a person has held judicial

office not inferior to that of a district judge after he became an advocate shall be

included.

(4) A Judge of the Supreme Court shall not be removed from his office except by an

order of the President passed after an address by each House of Parliament supported

by a majority of the total membership of that House and by a majority of not less than

twothirds of the members of that House present and voting has been presented to the

President in the same session for such removal on the ground of proved misbehaviour

or incapacity.

(5) Parliament may by law regulate the procedure for the presentation of an address

and for the investigation and proof of the misbehaviour or incapacity of a Judge under

clause (4).

(6) Every person appointed to be a Judge of the Supreme Court shall, before he enters

upon his office, make and subscribe before the President, or some person appointed in

that behalf by him, an oath or affirmation according to the form set out for the

purpose in the Third Schedule.

(7) No person who has held office as a Judge of the Supreme Court shall plead or act

in any court or before any authority within the territory of India.

Practice Questions:

1. The 2017 bilateral maritime exercise “SIMBEX-17” has started between India and which country?

A. Sri Lanka

B. South Africa

C. South Korea

D. Singapore

Correct Answer: D [Singapore]

Type: Current Affair

Level: moderate

Explanation: The 24th edition of bilateral maritime exercise “SIMBEX-17” has started between Navies of the Republic of Singapore and India in the South China Sea from

May 18 and will continue to May 21, 2017. The purpose of the exercise is to increase

interoperability between the two navies as well as to develop common understanding

and procedures for maritime security operations. SIMBEX is an acronym for

“Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercises”.

2. Which city to host the 2017 annual convention of the African Development

Bank (AfDB) Group?

A. Valencia

B. Gandhinagar

C. Lisbon

D. Shanghai

Correct Answer: B [Gandhinagar]

Type: Curent Affair

Level: Easy

Explanation: The 52nd annual meeting of African Development Bank (AfDB) Group

will be held at the Mahatma Mandir convention centre in Gandhinagar , Gujarat from

May 22 to 26, 2017 with theme “Transforming Agriculture for Wealth Creation in Africa”.

3. The Bhindawas Bird Sanctuary (BBS) is located in which state?

A. Haryana

B. Rajasthan

C. Sikkim

D. Kerala

Correct Answer: A [Haryana]

Type:G.K

Level: Moderate

Explanation: The Bhindawas Bird Sanctuary (BBS) is located in Jhajjar district,

Haryana. It is home to many birds such as Blue Peafowl, Gray Francolin, Black

Francolin, Shikra, Black Kite, Greater Coucal, White-throated Kingfisher, Coppersmith

Barbet and Indian Roller. It is in news because the sanctuary will soon be developed

as a beautiful tourist resort and the additional facilities to be provided to the tourists

coming to this place would include arrangements for camping for night stay,

beautification of the lake, and opening of dispensary for birds and the wild life.

4. What is the style of script in the Indus Valley Civilization?

a) Boustrophedon

b) Pictographic

c) Hieroglyphic

d) None of the above

Correct Answer: (A)

Type: Culture

Difficulty level: Moderate

Explanation:

In the Indus Valley, The script was boustrophedon. The script was written from right to left in one line and then from left to right in the next line.

5. Consider the following statement with reference to The Surrogacy (Regulation)Bill which

was in news recently.

1. The bill allows altruistic surrogacy.

2. Surrogate mother need not be a relative

3. Insurance coverage for the surrogate mother is a must.

Choose the correct answer

A. Only 1

B. 1 and 2

C. All three

D. None of the above

Correct answer: (A)

Topic: Current affair

Level: Easy

Explanation:

The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016 {focus on broad aspects }

a) Regulation of surrogacy: The Bill

prohibits commercial surrogacy, but

allows altruistic surrogacy. Altruistic

surrogacy involves no monetary

compensation to the surrogate mother

other than the medical expenses and

insurance coverage during the

pregnancy. Commercial surrogacy

includes surrogacy or its related

procedures undertaken for a monetary

benefit or reward (in cash or kind) exceeding the basic medical expenses and

insurance coverage.

b) Purposes for which surrogacy is permitted: Surrogacy is permitted when it

is, (i) for intending couples who suffer from proven infertility; and (ii) altruistic;

and (iii) not for commercial purposes; and (iv) not for producing children for sale,

prostitution or other forms of exploitation.

c) Eligibility criteria for intending couple: The intending couple should have a

‘certificate of essentiality’ and a ‘certificate of eligibility’ issued by the appropriate authority.

d) A certificate of essentiality will be issued upon fulfilment of the following

conditions: (i) a certificate of proven infertility of one or both members of the

intending couple from a District Medical Board; (ii) an order of parentage and

custody of the surrogate child passed by a Magistrate’s court; and (iii) insurance coverage for the surrogate mother.

e) The certificate of eligibility is issued upon fulfilment of the following

conditions by the intending couple: (i) Indian citizens and are married for at

least five years; (ii) between 23 to 50 years old female and 26 to 55 years old

male; (iii) they do not have any surviving child (biological, adopted or surrogate);

this would not include a child who is mentally or physically challenged or suffers

from life threatening disorder or fatal illness.

f) Eligibility criteria for surrogate mother: To obtain a certificate of eligibility

from the appropriate authority, the surrogate mother has to: (i) be a close

relative of the intending couple; (ii) be an ever married woman having a child of

her own; (iii) be 25 to 35 years old; (iv) be a surrogate only once in her lifetime;

and (iv) possess a certificate of medical and psychological fitness for surrogacy.

g) Appropriate authority: The central and state governments shall appoint one or

more appropriate authorities within 90 days of the Bill becoming an Act. The

functions of the appropriate authority include; (i) granting, suspending or

cancelling registration of surrogacy clinics; (ii) enforcing standards for surrogacy

clinics; (iii) investigating and taking action against breach of the provisions of

the Bill; (iv) recommending modifications to the rules and regulations.

h) Registration of surrogacy clinics: Surrogacy clinics cannot undertake

surrogacy related procedures unless they are registered by the appropriate

authority

i) National and State Surrogacy Boards: The central and the state governments

shall constitute the National Surrogacy Board (NSB) and the State Surrogacy

Boards (SSB), respectively. Functions of the NSB include, (i) advising the

central government on policy matters relating to surrogacy; (ii) laying down the

code of conduct of surrogacy clinics; and (iii) supervising the functioning of

SSBs.

j) Offences and penalties: The Bill states the following offences: (i) undertaking

or advertising commercial surrogacy; (ii) exploiting the surrogate mother; (iii)

abandoning, exploiting or disowning a surrogate child; and (iv) selling or

importing human embryo or gametes for surrogacy. These offences will attract a

minimum penalty of 10 years and a fine up to 10 lakh rupees.

G.S. Paper -2

Topic: Bilateral Relations

Modi gears up to meet Putin

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/modi-gears-up-to-meet-

putin/articleshow/58849976.cms

In news:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to hold the 18th annual summit with

Russian President Vladimir Putin in St Petersburg during his fournation tour,

starting Monday .

The tour will take him to Germany , Spain and France as well. This Europe-

centric visit is aimed at attracting greater investment to India.

India and Russia: bilateral trade is going down and Russia increasingly

aligning itself with China.

Basic Information:

North–South Transport Corridor

The International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC)

is a 7,200-km-long multi-mode network of ship, rail, and

road route for moving freight between India, Russia, Iran,

Europe and Central Asia.

The route primarily involves moving freight from India,

Iran, Azerbaijan and Russia via ship, rail and road.

The objective of the corridor is to increase trade

connectivity between major cities such as Mumbai,

Moscow, Tehran, Baku, Bandar Abbas, Astrakhan,

Bandar Anzali, etc.

TIR Convention

The Convention on International Transport of Goods Under Cover of TIR

Carnets (TIR Convention) is a multilateral treaty that was concluded at Geneva

on 14 November 1975 to simplify and harmonise the administrative formalities

of international road transport. (TIR stands for "Transports Internationaux

Routiers" or "International Road Transports

The conventions were adopted under the auspices of the United Nations

Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).

As of January 2017, there are 70 parties to the Convention, including 69 states

and the European Union.

The TIR Convention establishes an international customs transit system with

maximum facility to move goods:

In sealed vehicles or containers;

From a customs office of departure in one country to a customs office of

destination in another country;

Without requiring extensive and time-consuming border checks at

intermediate borders;

While, at the same time, providing customs authorities with the required

security and guarantees.

The TIR system not only covers customs transit by road but a combination is

possible with other modes of transport (e.g., rail, inland waterway, and even

maritime transport), as long as at least one part of the total transport is made

by road.

Topic: Health Issues

Prices of 31 more drugs capped

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/prices-of-31-more-drugs-

capped/article18579695.ece

Context: Accessibility and affordability of medicines.

In News:

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) capped the prices of

31 more drugs.

Price control: intrauterine devices used for birth control; Factor VIII, a life-

saving medicine for haemophilic patients; morphine, a pain killer; and

rifampcin, a powerful antibiotic used to treat infections such as tuberculosis

and leprosy.

Basic Information:

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA):

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) is a government

regulatory agency {set up as per executive order and thus not a statutory body}

that controls the prices of pharmaceutical drugs in India.

It has been given powers to implement and enforce the Drugs Price Control

Order (DPCO), 1995/2013.

It can fund studies regarding pricing of drugs.

It also has the task to monitor drug shortages and take appropriate actions to

rectify it.

It also has to collect and maintain data regarding the import and export of

drugs, market shares of pharmaceutical companies and their profits.

It also handles legal disputes that arise out of policies created by it.

It advices the Government of India in matters of drug policies and pricing.

It renders advice to the Central Government on changes/ revisions in the drug

policy.

It can also cap the prices of a drug and recently it capped the prices of coronary

stent.

G.S. Paper -3

Topic: Economic

India retains world's highest FDI recipient crown: Report

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/finance/india-retains-

worlds-highest-fdi-recipient-crown-report/articleshow/58845156.cms

In news:

fDi Report 2017 compiled by FDI intelligence, division of

Financial Times Ltd.

India retained its number one position as the world's top

most Greenfield FDI investment destination for the

second consecutive year, attracting USD 62.3 billion in

2016, says a report.

India has remained ahead of China and the US as far as

FDI inflows.

In the year 2016, FDI gravitated to locations experiencing

the strongest economic growth, while locations in

recession or facing high levels of uncertainty saw major

decline.

China has overtaken the US to become the second biggest

country for FDI by capital investment, recording USD 59

billion of announced FDI, compared with USD 48 billion-

worth in the US.

Globally, the real estate sector has claimed the top

spot for capital investment.

Basic Information:

Greenfield investments:

A green field investment is a form of foreign direct investment where a parent

company builds its operations in a foreign country from the ground up. In

addition to the construction of new production facilities, these projects can also

include the building of new distribution hubs, offices and living quarters.

Brownfield Investment:

Brown field investment, also referred to as "brownfield" is when a company or

government entity purchases or leases existing production facilities to launch a

new production activity

Green writing on wall: OPEC agrees to India plan for joint study

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/green-writing-on-

wall-opec-agrees-to-india-plan-for-joint-study/articleshow/58850098.cms

In news:

India-OPEC Institutional Dialogue

OPEC, the grouping of oil exporting countries, has agreed to India's proposal for

setting up a joint working group to asses future scenarios for the oil industry

as energy mix in major economies undergo rapid changes due to expansion in

renewable sources.

There is a shift in focus to wind, biomass, electric vehicles, hybrid cars and

other alternative fules. All this puts the oil industry at a crossroads and higher

crude prices will only act as a catalyst for faster growth of affordable alternative

energy technologies.

Importance:

The acceptance of the proposal by the grouping is an indication of India's

growing importance in the global oil market due to the combined effect of its

hunger for fuel and rapidly expanding green energy capacity.

Basic Information:

OPEC:

Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries is an intergovernmental

organization of 13 nations as of 2017, founded in 1960 in Baghdad by the first

five members (Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Venezuela), and headquartered

since 1965 in Vienna.

As of 2015, the 13 countries accounted for an estimated 42 percent of global oil

production and 73 percent of the world's "proven" oil reserves, giving OPEC a

major influence on global oil prices that were previously determined by

American-dominated multinational oil companies.

OPEC's stated mission is "to coordinate and unify the petroleum policies of its

member countries and ensure the stabilization of oil markets, in order to secure

an efficient, economic and regular supply of petroleum to consumers, a steady

income to producers, and a fair return on capital for those investing in the

petroleum industry."

As of January 2017, OPEC's members are Algeria, Angola, Ecuador, Gabon,

Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates,

and Venezuela, while Indonesia is a former member.

Two-thirds of OPEC's oil production and reserves are in its six Middle Eastern

countries that surround the oil-rich Persian Gulf.

Practice questions:

1. As per FDI Report 2017, which sector received the highest capital investments?

A. Real Estate

B. Coal , Oil , Natural gas

C. Renewable energy

D. Metals.

Correct answer: A

Type: Current Affair

Level: moderate

Explanation: fDi Report 2017 compiled by FDI intelligence, division of

Financial Times Ltd.

India retained its number one position as the world's top most

Greenfield FDI investment destination for the second consecutive

year, attracting USD 62.3 billion in 2016, says a report.

India has remained ahead of China and the US as far as FDI

inflows.

In the year 2016, FDI gravitated to locations experiencing the

strongest economic growth, while locations in recession or facing

high levels of uncertainty saw major decline.

China has overtaken the US to become the second biggest country

for FDI by capital investment, recording USD 59 billion of

announced FDI, compared with USD 48 billion-worth in the US.

Globally, the real estate sector has claimed the top spot for

capital investment.

2. As per FDI Report 2017, India retained its number one position as the world’s top most ________ investment destination for the second consecutive year?

A. Green field

B. Brown filed

C. Renewable energy.

D. Automobile

Correct answer: A

Type: Current Affair

Level: moderate

Explanation: India retained its number one position as the world's

top most Greenfield FDI investment destination for the second

consecutive year, attracting USD 62.3 billion in 2016, says a

report.

3. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority is a

A. Statutory body

B. Constitutional body

C. Body set up as per executive order

D. None of the above

Correct Answer: C

Type: Current Affair

Level: Easy

Explanation:

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) is a government

regulatory agency {set up as per executive order and thus not a statutory

body} that controls the prices of pharmaceutical drugs in India.

4. The Convention on International Transport of Goods cover custom transit by

A. Road only

B. Rail only

C. Inland Water ways only

D. None of the above

Correct Answer: D

Type: Current Affair

Level: Difficult

Explanation:

The TIR Convention establishes an international customs transit

system with maximum facility to move goods:

In sealed vehicles or containers;

From a customs office of departure in one country to a

customs office of destination in another country;

Without requiring extensive and time-consuming border

checks at intermediate borders;

While, at the same time, providing customs authorities with

the required security and guarantees.

The TIR system not only covers customs transit by road but a

combination is possible with other modes of transport (e.g., rail,

inland waterway, and even maritime transport), as long as at least

one part of the total transport is made by road.

G.S. Paper -2

Topic: Polity

1. New restrictions on cattle slaughter

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/government-bans-sale-purchase-of-

cattle-from-animal-markets-for-slaughter/article18585018.ece

In news:

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified new rules-

the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Regulation of Livestock Markets)

Rules, 2017- that seeks to ban the sale of cattle for slaughter at animal

markets across the country.

Sellers: Those who wish to sell cattle — bulls, cows, buffaloes, steers, heifers

and camels — may do so only after they formally state that the animals have

not been “brought to the market for sale for slaughter”. Buyers at market:

Needs to be an agriculturalists (must be verified by the concerned

authority).

Resale of the animal/s for a

period of six months from the

date of purchase is prohibited.

Buyers should follow the State

cattle protection and

preservation laws” and “not sacrifice the animal for any

religious purpose”. Prohibition of cattle

purchased from animal

markets being sold outside

the State, without permission.

Implementing agency:

Monitoring committees at the

State and district levels will be

set up to implement the rules

and monitor the functioning of

animal markets.

Markets will be identified and

registered

Approval of the District Animal Market Monitoring Committee, chaired by

the Collector or District Magistrate is needed to set up new markets.

To inhibit smuggling, animal markets may not function within 25

kilometres of a State border and 50 kilometres of an international border.

Provisions to prevent cruel transport and treatment of animals:

Notification prohibits practices that are cruel and harmful include sealing teats

of the udder using any material such as adhesive tapes to prevent the calf from

suckling, putting any ornaments or decorative materials on animals, using any

type of muzzle to prevent animals from suckling or eating food and injecting

oxytocin into milch animals.

Present scenario:

At present 90% of buffaloes are sourced from mandis by middlemen for sale in

slaughterhouses

A mere 10% of buffaloes are sourced directly from farmers.

2. Notification comes after SC directive

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/notification-comes-after-sc-

directive/article18587266.ece

In news:

Supreme Court had earlier issued directive to the government to form an inter-

ministerial committee to recommend ways of preventing cattle smuggling.

Directive was in response to the 2014 writ petition filed by Gauri Mulekhi of

People for Animals.

The inter-ministerial committee recommended: rules to be framed under the

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960 to regulate livestock markets.

Impacts of the new rules framed:

Weeds out middlemen role from the supply chain linking farm-heads to

slaughter houses.

Improve traceability of zoonotic diseases

Curb illegitimate slaughter and smuggling and

Put the onus on cattle-owners to dispose of their animals responsibly.

3. Glitch in govt. transfers delays ₹3045 cr in NREGA wages

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/glitch-in-govt-transfers-delays-3045-

cr-in-nrega-wages/article18585704.ece

Context: Wage payment delay under National Rural Employment Guarantee Act.

In News:

According to data collated by NREGA Sangharsh Morcha, a platform that tracks the

implementation of the workfare programme.

Wage payment delays have mounted drastically in April-May 2017.

Fund Transfer Orders (FTOs) worth ₹3,045 crore are yet to be processed by

the central government’s National Electronic Fund Management System

(NEFMS).

Processing delay was highest in the cases of Kerala and Uttarakhand.

On an average it takes up to 25 days for the payment to reach the worker even

after the FTO has been signed.

What does the act say?

As per Schedule II of the Act, an NREGA worker must be paid within 15 days

of completing his allocated tasks.

Compensation in case of delay: A delay in payment, for which the worker

must be compensated, has to be calculated from the 16th day after task

completion, till the time the money is credited in the worker’s account.

Flaw in computing compensation:

NREGA Management Information System (MIS) calculates the delay only till the

second signature on the FTO from the state government, after which the pay

order goes to the central government for processing.

Systemic failure: These delays and other unexpected delays are not captured

in MIS.

Way forward:

The government must adopt a system for NREGA payments that is reliable and

not vulnerable to gross irregularities such as repeated delays in the processing

of FTOs.

Tracking at each level should be adopted.

Basic information:

The national electronic fund management system (NeFMS):

The national electronic fund management system (NeFMS), project launched by

the Central government in the State for direct and faster release of wages under

the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme

(MGNREGS)

It will enable direct and immediate credit of wages into the accounts within 48

hours of the issue of the order.

4. Commercial e-vehicles won’t need permits

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/commercial-e-vehicles-wont-need-

permits/articleshow/58864682.cms

In news:

Permits not required for commercial purpose electric vehicles such as taxis,

auto-rickshaws and buses.

The road transport ministry is working on this proposal in its bid to push

electric vehicles across segments to check air pollution and high dependence on

imported crude oil.

The ministry has already set a similar

model by allowing e-rickshaws to ply

without getting permit, though they have to

be registered and must meet minimum

safety requirement.

Union transport minister Nitin Gadkari and

Maharashtra chief minister Devendra

Fadnavis launched the country's first

multi-modal electric vehicle project in

Nagpur. The pilot project envisages a fleet of

200 electric-powered public transport

vehicles which would be run on cab

aggregator Ola’s app platform in Nagpur.

G.S. Paper -3

Topic: Internal Security and Disaster Management

5. DRDO’s aero test range to be inaugurated tomorrow

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/drdos-

aero-test-range-to-be-inaugurated-on-sunday/article18587280.ece

In news:

Location: near Challakere in Chitradurga district, Karnataka.

The Aeronautical Test Range is a facility under the Aeronautical Development

Establishment (ADE) which works on a range of UAVs (unmanned air vehicles).

It will be an integrated test centre for the DRDO’s cluster of aeronautical laboratories, most of them based in Bengaluru.

DRDO used the ATR to conduct the first successful flight of the UAV ‘Tapas’ 201, earlier called Rustom-2.

Tapas is a MALE or medium altitude, long endurance UAV that can

continuously, slowly watch over a 200-km area for 24 hours. The pictures it

captures will be interpreted by the armed forces or security.

Miscellaneous:

6. New bridge will spur a revolution: Modi

http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/dhola-sadiya-bridge-

indias-longest-river-bridge-inaugurated-by-pm-modi/article18582249.ece

In news:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the country’s longest bridge over

the Lohit river in Assam .

Facts round up:

9.15 km-long bridge: Bhupen Hazarika Setu (Dhola-Sadiya), named after

Dadasaheb Phalke awardee and legendary lyricist-singer Bhupen Hazarika

who hailed from Sadiya .

It connects Assam (Dhola) and Arunachal Pradesh (Saidya), reduced distance

by 165 km and cutting travel time by seven to eight hours.

Basic Information:

The Bandra–Worli Sea Link, officially called Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link, is a cable-

stayed bridge with pre-stressed concrete-steel viaducts on either side that links

Bandra in the Western Suburbs of Mumbai with Worli in South Mumbai.

Scheme/Acts/Articles in news:

SAMPADA (Scheme For Agro-Marine Processing And Development Of Agro-

Processing Clusters)

Objective: to supplement agriculture, modernize processing and decrease agri-

waste.

SAMPADA is an umbrella scheme incorporating ongoing schemes of the

Ministry like Mega Food Parks, Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition

Infrastructure, Food Safety and Quality Assurance Infrastructure, etc. and also

new schemes like Infrastructure for Agro-processing Clusters, Creation of

Backward and Forward Linkages, Creation / Expansion of Food Processing &

Preservation Capacities.

It includes new schemes of

Infrastructure for Agro-processing Clusters

Creation of Backward and Forward Linkages

Creation / Expansion of Food Processing & Preservation Capacities aim

at development of modern infrastructure to encourage entrepreneurs to

set up food processing units based on cluster approach, provide effective

and seamless backward and forward integration for processed food

industry by plugging gaps in supply chain

Creation of processing and preservation capacities and modernization/

expansion of existing food processing units.

The implementation of SAMPADA will result in

Creation of modern infrastructure with efficient supply chain

management from farm gate to retail outlet.

Provides better prices to farmers and is a big step towards doubling of

farmers’ income. Create huge employment opportunities especially in the rural areas.

Helps in reducing wastage of agricultural produce, increasing the

processing level, availability of safe and convenient processed foods at

affordable price to consumers and enhancing the export of the processed

foods.

Practice questions

1. The "Preservation, protection and improvement of stock and prevention of

animal diseases, veterinary training and practice" comes under which list of

Constitution of India?

A. State list

B. Union List

C. Concurrent List

D. None of the above

Correct Answer: A

Type: Polity

Level: Easy

Explanation:

The "Preservation, protection and improvement of stock and prevention

of animal diseases, veterinary training and practice" is Entry 15 of the

State List of the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, meaning that

State Legislatures have exclusive powers to legislate the prevention of

slaughter and preservation of cattle.

2. The State shall endeavour to organise agriculture and animal husbandry on

modern and scientific lines and shall, in particular, take steps for preserving

and improving the breeds, and prohibiting the slaughter of cows and calves and

other milch and draught cattle is mentioned in which part of the constitution?

A. Fundamental duties

B. Union list

C. Concurrent list

D. Directive Principles of State Policy

Correct Answer: D

Type: Polity

Level: Easy

Explanation:

The prohibition of cow slaughter is also one of the Directive Principles of

State Policy contained in Article 48 of the Constitution. It reads, "The

State shall endeavour to organise agriculture and animal husbandry on

modern and scientific lines and shall, in particular, take steps for

preserving and improving the breeds, and prohibiting the slaughter of

cows and calves and other milch and draught cattle."

3. As per NREGA, the minimum number of days within which the workers wages

must be paid after due completion of tasks is

A. 30 days

B. 25 days

C. 15 days

D. 10days

Correct Answer: C

Type: Schemes

Level: Moderate

Explanation:

As per Schedule II of the Act, an NREGA worker must be paid within 15

days of completing his allocated tasks.

4. Which bridge is expected to get the tag of the Longest bridge in India in future?

A. Bhupen Hazarika Setu

B. Dhola–Sadiya Bridge

C. The New Ganga Bridge

D. Bandra–Worli Sea Link

Correct Answer: C

Type: G.K

Level: Difficult

Explanation:

o The Bhupen Hazarika Setu (Dhola–Sadiya Bridge), which became

operational on 26 May 2017, is the longest bridge in India. It spans the

Lohit River, a major tributary of Brahmaputra River, from Dhola in south

to Sadiya in north to connect the states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh

and is 9.15 kilometres (5.69 mi) in length.

o However, the New Ganga Bridge Project Project with a length of

9.8km being constructed in Bihar for replacing the ageing Mahatma

Gandhi Setu and funded by Asian Development Bank is expected to

get the tag of Longest bridge in India in future

5. Where is the country’s first multi-modal electric vehicle project launched?

A. Nagpur

B. Mumbai

C. Pune

D. Bangalore

Correct option: A

Type: Current Affair

Level: Easy

Explanation: Union transport minister Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra

chief minister Devendra Fadnavis launched the country's first multi-

modal electric vehicle project in Nagpur. The pilot project envisages a

fleet of 200 electric-powered public transport vehicles which would be

run on cab aggregator Ola’s app platform in Nagpur.